LONG ROAD AHEAD - Part 1

Part 1 of a 2 part story on Derby development.
DERBY - With years of ground work already done, including a 2006 traffic study, a public hearing and a proposal to locate a Walmart Super Center in downtown Newport, the recent announcement that a store will be sited between Shattuck Hill Road and US RT5 in Derby has been met with much anticipation for some. But long before the doors will open, the project must undergo a lengthy public review process that will involve several major players.
Walmart developer Jeff Davis (Shattuck Hill Investments) will present a development plan to the Act 250 commission for approval.
The Agency of Transportation (VTrans) will determine what, if any, road and signal upgrades will be required to accommodate the increase in traffic on the Derby Road.
Derby's Select Board and Planning Commission will be parties to the development plan, as will the Village of Derby Center's water commission. The City of Newport's sewer system and proximity to the project will give the city council party status as well. Other non-government organizations including the Vermont Natural Resources Council and Conservation Law Foundation will weigh in with their concerns about development in Orleans County.
Fore more of this story, see the Newport Daily Express for Wednesday, Jan. 30, and Thursday, Jan. 31, 2013.